I am indebted to Vera Brett, wartime Wren, for her help and advice on all things connected to the navy. It was terrific fun to meet you and hear your stories about your time in the Wrens during the Second World War, and to confirm that my research had mostly been right. I must emphasise that April’s story is purely fictional, and is in no way connected to Vera’s own experiences. Thank you, Vera, for your generosity in allowing me to delve into your wealth of knowledge, and for the lovely afternoon we spent together.
As usual, this book could not have been written without the help of my terrific and supportive agent, Teresa Chris, and the great team at Arrow. Thank you all, especially, Jenny Geras, my very understanding editor.
Thanks as ever to my wonderful husband who supports me through the trials and tribulations of getting the story told, provides coffee, advice and encouragement.